Panamá Viejo

The museum is pretty well laid out and gives you a good view of the colonial period with a bit of indigenous history. The actual ruins are worth a walk around, at least the main section. Was very quiet earlier in the day but was starting to get quiet busy around 11

Great location to experience the history of Panama in the 1500s and all the colonization that happened. The museum include artifacts as well as the tools used during that era. This is a must to visit place in Panama City. Also, we saw at 10 iguanas!! Entry ticket is $10 per person

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Panama Viejo is a hidden gem! Explore ancient ruins and a quaint museum showcasing the original settlement. Climb the historic tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of the area. A must-visit for history buffs and those seeking a glimpse into Panama's past. Well-preserved ruins and informative exhibits make this a memorable experience. Don't miss the chance to step back in time and discover the city's rich history!

Fascinating archeological site that provides deep insight into the colonial impact that shaped the face of the region. Two highlights to look out for is the cistern at the convent, and the seashells portruding from the sandy mortar on many of the ruins.

Come early in the morning to see the ruins while the sun is still low in the sky, then escape the midday heat in the Panama Viejo museum. Well-structured as a story through time, the museum requires numerous hours to fully explore. Information is presented in English and Spannish which makes the museum a great place to study your Spanish.

Many tours roll through during the day, and professional guides with personal RF broadcast equipment means you can always hear what they are saying. If you are short on time, this might be your most efficient option.

Really enjoyed Panama Viejo—interesting place to see ruins. Only downside was encountering some mosquitoes, but the overall visit was great.

So glad I visited! The museum was full of information, I spent over an hour there. The ruins were cool, climb up the old tower for great views. The day I went had blue skies so the views were even better! Many cool birds around the ruins, the area used to be mangroves. It was also mango season when I went (Aug 1). They have trolleys that bring people between the entrance and the different sections of the ruins. Bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray for when walking around the ruins themselves.

A very informative and interesting museum, I learned lots. The remains of the old city are scarse but the museum gives you a vision of what things (probably) were like.

I'd say, a must-visit in Panama City.

We visited on a weekday and did not book in advance, don't know if it's necessary on weekends.

Best thing to do in Panama City if you enjoy history or historical sites. I LOVE historical sites and this site had me very impressed by the size and range of ruins. If it were not so hot and humid, I could have easily spent half a day to a full day here. For what you get, the price is very low. Plus, you get one of the best views of the city.

Recommended visit.

We visited during the week and it was a pretty empty which was lovely. We were able to take our time taking pictures and walk around.

The museum is interesting and much larger than we thought it would be.

Allow at least 2 hours to visit this with enough time to see everything.

If you want to walk outside, bring an umbrella because it’s very hot and there isn’t much shading.

They have a small coffee shop where you can get water inside.

Panama is a country that truly deserves a 5-star rating for its incredible diversity, stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. My visit to this remarkable Central American gem was an experience filled with awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable memories.

The natural beauty of Panama is simply breathtaking. From the lush rainforests of the Darien to the pristine beaches of Bocas del Toro, each region offers a unique and stunning display of nature. The Panama Canal, an engineering marvel, is a testament to the country’s historical significance and a must-visit.

Exploring Panamá Viejo was a journey through time. As the oldest European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas, its ruins tell stories of the past, offering a profound sense of history. Walking among the remnants of this ancient city, I felt a deep connection to the centuries of stories embedded within its walls. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a poignant reminder of Panama’s rich and layered history.

The cultural vibrancy of Panama, seen in the bustling streets of Casco Viejo and the traditional dances of indigenous communities, creates a rich tapestry of experiences. The blend of indigenous, Hispanic, and modern influences is enchanting, particularly in the historic neighborhoods where colonial architecture and lively plazas abound.

Panamanian cuisine is a delightful experience, with its fresh seafood, flavorful dishes, and exquisite coffee, especially from the highlands of Boquete. The warmth and hospitality of the Panamanian people further enhance the travel experience, making every visitor feel welcomed and valued.

In summary, Panama offers an incredible mix of natural wonders, cultural richness, and historical depth. Whether you’re exploring the tropical wilderness, delving into the historical intrigue of Panamá Viejo, or relaxing on a sun-kissed beach, Panama promises a diverse and enriching experience for every traveler. It’s a destination that’s not just to be visited, but to be experienced in all its multifaceted glory.

It has a very informative museum, beautiful park, and rich history. I highly recommend anyone visiting Panama city to visit here.

Raided by Captain Morgan with 36 ships in 1671 the city was looted and put to the flame. Never rebuild instead the Panamanians relocated nearby and rebuild as you can see by the gleaming towers in the background.

We went on a rainy day but very much enjoyed the area and the view from the tower. I was a little taken aback when I saw the price, but it was totally worth it! My favorite was the museum. There is so much interesting history. There was also a gift shop and a cafe outside. A great time to spend a couple of hours.

Awesome place with wonderful history. A must see in Panama

Historical place. The ruins of the old city of Panama are very well kept. There is a museum to learn the history of Panama. You can go up the tower for mazing views of the city, the skyline of Panama, bridges and shoreline. Very beautiful!

Great place to visit while in Panama. Lots of history and culture!

The history of how Panama became a city. It was fun to walk the grounds

An interesting place. The tower is great as are the rest of the grounds.

I'm glad I didn't live during Pirate times, unless I would've been the Pirate .

Old Panama is a combination of businesses and residence in the historic district of Panama. There’s also government buildings and historic sites and monuments all over. It’s packed with restaurants, shops, clubs and bars, including rooftop dining. Streets are jammed with traffic and people in the evening, especially on weekends. Use an Uber or walk to get around, it’s a vibrant area of Panama and great for tourists!

$10 for foreign visitors. They have free shuttle tram running every 15 minutes back and forth from the gate to the tower (last one departs by the tower at 5:20pm). You can also choose to walk ( ~1 km one-way) and enjoy all the ruins along the way. Each shuttle tram can take ~50 people (4 people in a row). They also do some audio guide along the way which was informative. They have a cafe (which they sell more local hot/cold snacks) and a museum (nice and cool AC). Worth the cost and spend a few hours here to learn more about the history of Panama City.